In 2017 alone, there were 1,889,000 police-reported traffic crashes involving injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition to those injury crashes, there were 24,247 fatal crashes in the same year. The degree of injuries sustained in injury crashes varies greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the following:
- The speed involved
- Whether the occupants were wearing seat belts
- The type of vehicle
- Whether the car was equipped with airbags
- Where the vehicle was struck (e.g. the front, side, or back)
In regard to car accidents, injuries generally fall into one of two categories: 1) impact injuries, or 2) penetrating injuries. An impact injury is self-explanatory: It has to do with the occupant hitting something in the car, such as hitting their forehead on the windshield. Penetrating injuries have to do with cuts and scrapes sustained in the crash, such as flying glass cutting the occupant.
Soft Tissue Injuries
A soft tissue injury is another type of injury that is very common with car accidents. This has to do with injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments – all parts of the body’s connective tissue. Soft tissue injuries are extremely common with all car accidents because the force of the crash can put a lot of strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. For example, if someone were to be rear-ended at 55 mph, they would likely suffer from whiplash (a soft tissue injury), which is where the neck is exposed to a sudden, extreme extension as the person’s head is thrown forward and then back again. Car accidents can also cause painful back injuries, which can affect the range of motion, sleep, and quality of life. While some lower and upper-back injuries are limited to strains, are more serious and involve herniated disks or spinal cord damage. Next: Should I See a Doctor After an Accident?
Were you injured in a car accident? If so, contact The Zendeh Del Law Firm, PLLC to file a claim for compensation.